What is a 3D Printer?

Well a 3D printer is a printer that can print out three-dimensional objects based on a digital model that you give it! This short write up will brief you on the various materials you can print with, the industries that these printers are being used in. As well how much they cost and where you can buy one!

Picture of the “Cube” developed by 3Dsystems below:

3D Printer Materials

Currently there are several 3D printing materials that can be used. Below you can find some of the more well-known and used materials.

Paper

Plaster

Thermoplastic

Metal alloy

Photo-polymer

Where is the 3D printer being used in industries

Some of the more popular industries that 3D printers are being used in include:

Jewelery

Automotive

Aerospace

Medical

Dental

Civil engineering

Design communities for 3D printers

How much does a 3D printer cost?

Depending on the need for the printer, costs can range from around $500 up to $2,000 for consumer printers. These prices may seem high but 3-4 years ago you were looking at paying at least $20,000 dollars for a typical 3D printer.

Where can I buy a 3D printer?

If you are interested in buying a 3D printer you should check out some of these vendors below.

Cube – One of the most popular consumer 3d printer on the market, with a huge community and following for projects and designs.

Makerbot – Another popular 3d printer on the market. More of a low-end commercial use printer as it costs quite a bit more than cube.

proto3000 – They sell a line of both consumer and commerical 3d printers.

Final thoughts

Though 3D printers have been around since the 1980’s they have finally come into reach to the average consumer. Also the past couple of years have been huge for the 3D printing industry in general. This is due to companies and communities that develop and test new designs all the time!